The Landlord's Mindset: Process Over Emotion
Difficult tenancies are stressful, but the landlords who handle them best treat every interaction as a process to follow, not a personal conflict to win. Know your rights, document everything, and escalate through proper channels.
Late or Unpaid Rent
If rent is late, send a written reminder immediately. If not received within a reasonable grace period (typically 3–5 days — check your lease), serve a 14-day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (Form 8). Keep records of all communications and bank statements. If rent is not paid within 14 days, apply to the RTDRS.
Property Damage
Document damage with timestamped photos. For ongoing damage, serve a notice to remedy (Form 10) with a specific cure period. For severe or intentional damage, you may have grounds for immediate eviction. At move-out, cross-reference with your move-in inspection report and pursue the deposit and/or RTDRS claim for amounts exceeding the deposit.
Noise and Neighbour Complaints
Issue a written warning first (keeps a paper trail). If the behaviour continues, serve a breach notice (Form 10). Repeated disturbances can support eviction on grounds of substantial breach of the tenancy agreement. Engage strata/condo management if the building has rules about noise.
Unauthorized Occupants
If someone is living in the unit who is not on the lease, issue a written notice citing the lease provision on occupants. If they remain after proper notice, this can be treated as a substantial breach. Review your lease to ensure this scenario is explicitly covered.
When to Call a Lawyer
For high-value damage claims, unusual legal circumstances, or tenants who actively contest RTDRS proceedings, consider engaging a landlord-tenant lawyer. Initial consultations typically run $200–$400 and can save significant money by ensuring you don't make procedural errors.